UCAS application figures 2014

Commenting on the release of UCAS application figures for 2014 university entry, Dr Wendy Piatt, Director General of the Russell Group, said:

"More than half a million potential students have rightly recognised the benefits of going to university. This is the second highest number of applications of all time and this year applications have increased by 4% despite the continuing fall in 18-year-olds.

“Prospective students know a good degree remains a sound investment for the vast majority. Ten of the top 30 universities in the world, as ranked by employers, are Russell Group universities.

“It is good news that applications for science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects are increasing but we are however worried by the continuing drop in applicants for both European and non-European languages. We need language graduates to meet the needs of our economy and society.

“We are pleased these figures also show that in the last decade there has been a substantial increase in the rates of applications from the most disadvantaged students. Our universities are committed to ensuring that every student with the qualifications, potential and determination to succeed has the opportunity to gain a place at a leading university, whatever their background.

“Money worries shouldn’t stop anyone from applying: there are no up-front fees, repayments are only made when they’re affordable and there is generous help with living costs. If you’re good enough to get in, you can afford to go.

“About one in three Russell Group students receive a bursary or scholarship that never has to be repaid, and our universities are spending unprecedented sums on financial support. Every student with the talent, potential and ability to succeed at a Russell Group university should apply.”

Notes to Editors

Research by the Department for Business Innovation and Skills identified the salary differential for Russell Group graduates. It found that male graduates of Russell Group universities earn on average 16% more than graduates from newer universities over the course of their lifetime. This premium is 9% for female Russell Group graduates. BIS research paper No. 112, August 2013.

Total applicants through UCAS by 15 January deadline by year:

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

430,489

464,167

570,510

583,530

540,020

558,820

580,000

The number of applicants for European languages is down from 20,350 in 2013 to 19,280 this year and for non-European languages the number is down from 5,750 to 5,420. Applications for engineering are up from 127,080 to 141,100 and for computer science they are up from 86,290 to 97,110.